Foods That A Person With Ibs Can Eat

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is characterized by its symptoms, which include abdominal discomfort or pain accompanied by at least two of the following: relief by defecation, change in frequency of stool or change in consistency of stool, according to the Merck Manual. The cause and pathophysiology of IBS are not fully understood. Foods for IBS sufferers vary depending on the individual, but general guidelines provide a starting point to help prevent and alleviate symptoms.

Fruits and Vegetables

Considerable amounts of fruits and vegetables are important for IBS, says the book "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care" by Sylvia Escott-Stump. A diet high in fiber for irritable bowel syndrome is encouraged to keep foods moving through the gastrointestinal tract. Most vegetables are OK for IBS sufferers, except for gas-causing vegetables such as onions, broccoli, corn, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Most fruits are OK to consume, though some people may be sensitive to the sugar fructose present in fruit, which leads to carbohydrate malabsorption and unpleasant symptoms of gas and abdominal pain. Fruits and vegetables to try include apples, oranges, bananas, grapefruit, berries, kiwi, pears, spinach, carrots, squash, asparagus and zucchini.

Low-fat Foods

A diet low in fat is recommended for people with IBS to reduce the pain that frequently occurs with fat digestion, according to "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care." High-fat foods include whole-fat milk, whole-fat cheeses, fatty meats and and fatty desserts. The release of the enzyme cholecystokinin, which aids in fat digestion, is associated with causing pain in IBS, according to a 2007 study in the "Australian Journal of Medical Herbalism" led by researcher Sonia Washburn. Eat low-fat dairy products, lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables and limited intake of fried food.

High-fiber Foods

High-fiber foods are recommended for IBS for symptoms of constipation, according to the National Digestive Disease and Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC. High-fiber food may not dissolve pain or diarrhea but does help to keep the colon distended to help prevent painful colon spasms. High-fiber foods to include are whole grains, whole-wheat bread, fruits, vegetables, beans and peas.